Contents
Description
Euphorbia Parryi, commonly known as Parry’s spurge, is a succulent perennial plant that belongs to the Euphorbia family. It is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico and can be found in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, mesas, and desert plains. This plant is characterized by its milky latex sap and small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
Appearance
Euphorbia Parryi is a low-growing plant that can reach up to 12 inches in height and 24 inches in width. It has thick, fleshy stems that are covered in small, oblong leaves that are arranged in whorls. The leaves are blue-green in color and have a waxy coating that helps to reduce water loss. The plant produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that are surrounded by showy, yellow-green bracts. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and are followed by small, rounded seed pods that split open when ripe.
Care Guide
Euphorbia Parryi is a relatively easy plant to care for and is well-suited to dry, arid environments. Here are some tips to help you care for your Parry’s spurge:
Water: Euphorbia Parryi is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter months.
Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary for Euphorbia Parryi. If you do choose to fertilize, use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: Euphorbia Parryi prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Use a cactus or succulent potting mix and add perlite or sand to improve drainage.
Sunlight: Euphorbia Parryi prefers full sun to partial shade. Place the plant in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: Euphorbia Parryi is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Euphorbia Parryi is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it may be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be removed by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap or by using an insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Euphorbia Parryi is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico and can be found in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, mesas, and desert plains. It is a hardy plant that is well-suited to dry, arid environments and is often used in xeriscaping and rock gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Euphorbia Parryi toxic?
A: Yes, Euphorbia Parryi is toxic and should be kept away from children and pets.
Q: How often should I water my Euphorbia Parryi?
A: Water your Euphorbia Parryi deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter months.
Q: Can Euphorbia Parryi be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Euphorbia Parryi can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location.
Q: How do I propagate Euphorbia Parryi?
A: Euphorbia Parryi can be propagated by stem cuttings or by seed.
Related Plants
- Euphorbia characias
- Euphorbia milii
- Euphorbia rigida
References
- “Euphorbia Parryi.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 26, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287855.
- “Euphorbia Parryi.” San Marcos Growers. Accessed August 26, 2021. https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=908.
- “Parry’s Spurge.” Arizona State University. Accessed August 26, 2021. https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapaiplants/SpeciesDetailForb.php?genusname=Euphorbia&speciesname=parryi.
